Liverpool City Council, advised by Montagu Evans, has formally launched its search for a development partner to transform the iconic Festival Gardens site in Liverpool.
The launch follows sign off on the project by the council’s cabinet last month.
Part of a wider 89-acre site, the Festival Gardens’ Development Zone extends to 27 acres on a waterfront site, 5km outside of the city centre.
The council wants the site to be redeveloped to create a “thriving, sustainable, healthy and inclusive neighbourhood”.
Development will be centred on phased, residential-led plans and multi-generational living with a range of housing types and tenures and including more than 20% affordable housing.
The scheme is expected to have a GDV of between £150m and £300m, depending on final plans. Some £53m has already been invested into the site and surrounding area to de-risk and accelerate delivery of the remediated brownfield land.
Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “This is a major milestone moment in the evolution of the Festival Gardens site.
“The appointment of a development partner will see the completion of the International Garden Festival initiative and marks the final chapter in a 40-year story of a site which originally covered 250 acres. It will also ensure that the UK’s only remaining Festival Gardens are preserved and enhanced for future generations to enjoy.”
He added: “We know how well-loved this area is and want to make sure that we are doing as much as we can to ensure this prime waterfront land has the potential to be a flagship development that sets the standard for sustainable housing in the UK.”
Montagu Evans partner Oliver Maury said: “The aim now is to create an exemplary residential-led neighbourhood that will bring people together, encourage social interaction and foster a sense of community.
“Liverpool City Council’s new development partner should offer a viable and deliverable scheme, driven by best practice; creativity and innovation in design, place-making and sustainability; and delivering a robust response to climate change. It is an exciting opportunity on a well-connected landmark site and we are looking forward to the range of approaches that are set to come forward.”
Interested parties have until 4 November to register their interest in the project. A preferred bidder is expected to be selected by September 2025.
Mace has been appointed to advise on project delivery and construction, with architects Metropolitan Workshop and Shedkm advising on design.
Image from Liverpool City Council
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